In college, I learned that there are two types of people: those who know exactly what they want to do with their lives and those who are figuring it out as they go along. During my time as a student, I fell firmly in the latter group, embracing the ignorance-is-bliss mentality when it came to my looming adulthood responsibilities and inevitable decision on what career I wanted to pursue (fake it till you make it may or may not be my middle name).
Luckily, it all worked out for me because I chose to use my English degree to break into the world of public relations. Now, three years after graduation I find myself working for an amazing company in an industry where it’s truly possible to learn something new every single day.
If you’ve found yourself on the cusp of post-grad world unsure of which path is the best to take, working in PR might be something to consider. Here’s why.
- Creativity is encouraged: While I may technically work at a desk, PR is no ordinary desk job. Each and everyday brings new opportunities to flex your creative muscles and come up with innovative and original ideas to get publicity for your clients. Whether it’s brainstorming how to celebrate National Craft Beer Week or simply inventing an interesting and unique hashtag, there is always a chance to let your creative side shine.
- Learn about countless industries: From restaurants and beer breweries to law firms and contact lenses distributors, I’ve had the opportunity to tap into a wide spectrum of industries throughout my time working in PR. As a result, I know the ins-and-outs of these industries (and the media that covers them). This is just another thing that sets PR apart from other career paths – you have the chance to learn about anything and everything while gaining insight and a wealth of knowledge on businesses from all over the country and world.
- Gain the ability to handle life’s curveballs: PR is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most stressful jobs, and with good reason. There is never a dull moment, with last-minute assignments popping up, a crisis that needs to be handled and something that needs to be added to the to-do list. And yet, I have never once felt as though I can’t handle something, and the ability to go with the flow and handle curveballs is something I attribute to my time working in PR. Prioritizing and planning are the keys to success, and that’s just not something they teach you in school.
- Exciting and stimulating: A day in the life of a PR executive is never the same as the previous day. Every day comes with new challenges, and with them new opportunities to prove your talent and excel. It’s a high-energy industry that can without a doubt be frustrating and draining, but exciting nonetheless.
- Stay informed: Working in PR means you’re going to need to be informed on what’s going on in the world: it’s not a suggestion, it’s a requirement. If you want to succeed in this industry, you have to know who’s covering what, what the big story of the week is, and what the big story of next week will be. This knowledge will inevitably trickle into your personal life, as you become a well-informed, intelligent individual who knows what’s going on outside their bubble.
